5/18/2014

Once I watched an interview with a classical ballet dancer and choreographer, who shared that, during most of his life he knew he could paint well but he didn't try. One day, he told his wife, "I think I can paint." So, she bought him brushes, a canvass and lots of paint. Next in the interview he showed this amazing self-portrait, the very first piece he did, reminiscent of the works of Chagall.

I think many creative people function in the same way: they know they have a lot to give but they need someone to put a brush in their hands or just push them along. Very rarely one meets an artist who stays motivated to explore different realms. I think one such artist, who ventured into dance, movie-making, coaching advertising and even blogging is Stella Angelova. I found one of her very old routine which shows her truly well-rounded athleticism and talent.

To go back to the story about the choreographer, I also remember they interviewed one of his best friends who commented: "When I saw his self-portrait, I remembered that, as a child he played the piano and he had a lot of potential, so I warned him not to share that secret or else his family will go buy him a piano, too. Stay quiet, just this one time. Don't tell them about the piano."

Talented people often ask a lot, without even asking explicitly. They go into careers that require time, effort, constant support and dedication. Beautiful paintings or great classical lines do not always lead to a lot of zeros in your bank account. But they may lead to some mild to moderate envy. Because, after all, even men of great power aspire to paint, and act, and even play an instrument, even if it doesn't bring them more luxury or more authority. Sometimes real talent is best acknowledged by those who can embrace it without secretly thinking, "Why am I not this good at anything?"

So, if you happen to do many things well and people know it, don't tell them about the piano. ;-)